Stakeholders across Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State have commended the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division, Jos, and Commander of the Special Task Force, Operation Safe Haven, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, for his proactive efforts toward fostering unity, peace, and harmonious living among residents of the area.
This commendation followed a stakeholders’ engagement convened by Operation Safe Haven to ensure a peaceful farming season—free from indiscriminate grazing, cattle rustling, and other criminal activities that have historically triggered violent conflicts, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of property, and deep-seated mistrust among communities.
Speaking with our correspondent, Ishaq Isa, the representative of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) in the area, expressed optimism that the engagement would restore confidence among residents and ensure a more peaceful farming period. He lamented the lack of sincerity among some community leaders and stressed the need for them to play a constructive role in peacebuilding. Isa highlighted that Major General Oyinlola emphasized the importance of mutual support and urged citizens to refrain from taking the law into their hands.
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Barkin Ladi, Reverend Luka Malak, applauded the military’s peace efforts. He noted that the meeting provided a platform for open dialogue, where stakeholders could share ideas and offer recommendations. He acknowledged the GOC’s clear directives, urging herders to manage their cattle responsibly while farmers engage in their activities without fear of crop destruction.
Alhaji Tambari Gizo, Deputy Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Barkin Ladi, echoed similar sentiments. He described the GOC’s message as one of peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding. Referring to recent killings, including that of the MACBAN Chairman and others in Marit and Kakuruk, he stressed the need for proactive measures. Gizo also highlighted the concerns raised over the influx of cattle into the area, and disclosed that the GOC recommended establishing a biometric database of residents and immigrants to address potential security threats.
Felix Yakubu, the Youth Leader of Heipang, described Major General Oyinlola as a man of peace committed to ensuring that citizens go about their lawful activities unhindered.
Stakeholders unanimously commended the mediatory and reconciliatory interventions of Lieutenant Colonel Isaac Indiorhwer, the Sector 4 Commandant of Operation Safe Haven, for his role in de-escalating potentially volatile situations.
It will be recalled that Major General Folunsho convened a Stakeholders’ meeting on Tuesday 6th May, 2025 comprising traditional rulers, religious and community Leaders to address the escalating security concerns in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, precipitated by a recent security breach. He lauded the people of Barkin Ladi for their cooperation with security agencies and commitment to peaceful coexistence.
He emphasized the importance of strengthening early warning mechanisms to prevent unnecessary conflict. He also assured that security agencies are heightening their operations to counter the activities of marauders and bring them to justice.
He urged stakeholders to prioritize dialogue over violence in resolving long-standing grievances and encouraged the public to provide timely information to support early response efforts.
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